Philosophical Writings

Author(s): Hemant Shah
Publisher: Academy of Philosophy

Page 74

Philosophy and Medicine : The Indian Standpoint
55
lethotriper machine to cure the blockage of the urinal system by stones through powerful sound waves supports the ancient sound formulas (Mantra vidya ) in the Occult (Trantric) system of India.
8.3. Water, Food, Allergy.
Modern medical science has come out with wonderful findings about water, food and even allergies. Popular beliefs are now being sent down the drain by scientists. Water is the most valuable property to mankind, says Carak. In fact, water and food, for both curing disease and maintaing health, have been discussed and described in Indian medical systems in full length. Food intolerance, or masked food allergy, which is still a relatively new concept in the modern medical world of the West was already touched upon and discussed in ancient Indian medicine. Allergy to it is “ a physical disorder caused by hypersensitivity to certain usually harmless substances that are eaten, inhaled or brought into contact with skin." All the new researchers regarding these further support the principles and practices of the Indian standpoint.
8.4. On Depression and Emotional Stress.
Most people do not recognise depression and mental or emotional stress until it is too late. It is important to know that one man in ten and one woman in five have a serious depression. In Yoga, in the Indian medical system, centuries back, this was not merely discussed, but an elaborate picture of symptoms and treatment was given. Again, by accepting the scientific explanation that emotional stress makes you physically ill, the biochemistry of stress, a new area of inquiry, is proceeding in research studies. According to the Indian medical systems stress affects digestion. “Physicians now see loose connections between types of stress and types of disease”. In Ayurveda, as I mentioned earlier, the physician is asked to know the patient not only physically, but also his state of mind, his activities and character in general. Of course, "links between cancer and stress are suspected” (asserted in Ayurveda), but they are still unproved.